The Queen's Cook (Queen Esther's Court #1)

by Tessa Afshar

She knew that sometimes the only way to calm was by appeasing her father’s demands and giving in to the monster that lived under his skin. But the need for compromise rankled even as it wore down her objections.

Something about her seemed safe. Trustworthy. Comforting.

Roxannah enjoyed the sweetness of her mother’s appreciation. The delight of knowing herself useful to her family. But her mother’s words also made her a little nauseous. She wished she did not have to carry the weight of their survival. The burden of it proved so heavy at times that it crushed even her ability to dream of better things, leaving behind merely the battle to endure.

Between you and me, God is even stranger than men. Else, why would he entrust the fate of a generation of his people to a woman ruled by fear?

“This is one of those moments when God alone is the answer. Our friends can accompany us through the journey, and that too is a gift. But only God can open impossible doors like this.”

Rules make a poor bridge to his love.

“You don’t have to try and make peace for everyone around you. It isn’t your responsibility to keep the world safe.”

“Growing up, my mother often bolstered me with encouragement. To make up for my father’s sharp tongue, I think. I suppose I have grown accustomed to receiving that constant affirmation. It feels like something is wrong when it’s not there.”

“Perhaps God wants you to find a new source of assurance. One that doesn’t depend upon others.”

“My mother says you pray for me.” For a moment, words were lost to him. “I do,” he admitted. “Why?”

“Because I know of no place safer than in the arms of God.”

The buzz of incessant vigilance that always hummed in the back of her mind came to a sudden stop. She did not need to guard against every danger or watch for every hurt hiding behind the door. She need not keep herself safe.

A sweet silence reigned within. This was safety. God with her. God for her. God ruling over all.